The Argentinian featured under Emery between 2014 and 2016 while at Sevilla, where the two won consecutive Europa League titles.

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According to Gazza Mercato, the newly appointed Arsenal boss has identified Banega as a top summer transfer target amid concerns over Jack Wilshere's future.

The 29-year-old playmaker, who is similarly fleet footed, has drawn comparisons to Wilshere in the past and would likely be a direct replacement for the Gunners academy product.

Wilshere - whose contract is due to expire - has been tipped to leave his boyhood club after failing to accept a bit-part role next year.

Times have changed at the Emirates, and gone are the days that former boss Arsene Wenger would have the overall say in transfer dealings.

Instead Arsenal's new infrastructure means that player purchasing now sits with head of football operations Raul Sanllehi and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat. And these are the men Emery will have to convince in order to set up a reunion with Banega.

The reports claim that Emery has now asked Arsenal's hierarchy to sign the midfielder, who turns 30 next week.

Talks between the two parties are reportedly imminent, with Banega's agent Marcelo Simonian now expected to travel to London to discuss a potential deal for the player.

The midfielder is currently in Russia with the Argentinian national team and featured from the bench in his side's opening World Cup game, a 1-1 draw with Iceland.